100 million litre crude oil tank opens in Geelong

Viva Energy Australia (“Viva Energy”) has officially opened its new 100 million litre crude oil tank at its Geelong Refinery.

Viva Energy GM Refining, Thys Heyns, said the $50 million crude oil tank project was a significant growth investment for the refinery that will not only increase its production capabilities, but also improve fuel supply security for Victoria.

“This is momentous day for the refinery, the Geelong community and Victoria. This tank increases our crude storage capacity by 40%, and in fact can hold enough crude oil to produce all the fuel required to meet Victoria’s needs for about three days.

“In addition to the tank, we’ve invested millions in other infrastructure projects such as the $23 million pumping station which increases the amount of fuel transported by pipeline to Melbourne by 25% and a $4 million upgrade to our jet fuel gantry to improve supply to Melbourne and Avalon airports.

“I’m also delighted to announce that we have received board approval to build a $15 million bitumen export facility, a $23 million, 25 million litre gasoline tank to increase our fuel storage at the refinery, and a $7 million revamp of our crude distillation unit furnace. All of these projects further demonstrate our commitment to build a sustainable business in Geelong and support our customers in Victoria,” said Mr Heyns.

In attendance at the opening were the Hon Richard Marles, Federal Member for Corio and Sarah Henderson, Federal Member for Corangamite.

The Hon Richard Marles commented that that the tank’s size was symbolic of Viva Energy’s investment in local manufacturing in Geelong during the past three years.

“Viva Energy’s $300 million investment into the Geelong Refinery during the past three years represents a significant investment in traditional manufacturing across the region. With a workforce of around 700 at the refinery this is great news for regional Victorian jobs and workers,” said Mr Marles.

Ms Henderson said, “The refinery has been an important part of the Geelong community for more than 60-years so it is great to see all of this investment being made to secure its long-term future.”